Introduction
If you’re looking for a pan set that sears like stainless steel and cleans like nonstick, you’ve probably heard of HexClad. Touted as “hybrid” cookware, it promises to combine the durability of stainless steel with the ease of nonstick. But these promises come at a price – is it worth it? In this review, we explore what HexClad really offers (especially in a Canadian/North American context), where it excels, where its weaknesses lie, and whether it’s a wise investment for your kitchen.
About HexClad
HexClad is an American cookware brand founded in 2016 by Daniel Winer and Cole Mecray. The core idea: combining a stainless steel grid with an underlying nonstick coating – a design that offers “the best of both worlds.”
The brand has gained recognition through direct-to-consumer sales, social media buzz, and celebrity endorsements (including from Gordon Ramsay). The brand now serves international markets—including Canada—and receives numerous product reviews and user feedback from North American kitchens.
HexClad's Mission and Philosophy 🌿
HexClad’s mission is to offer cookware that reduces compromises. Instead of having to choose between heat-resistant stainless steel and easy-to-clean nonstick, you get a hybrid that offers both. The products are positioned as follows:
Performance + Durability,
Less Maintenance,
Compatibility with Metal Utensils,
Lifetime Warranty (covering defects, not wear and tear).
In recent years, HexClad has also taken steps to improve transparency in coatings: Analysts report that the company has transitioned from PTFE-based coatings to newer ceramic/PFAS-free versions (starting around 2024) for certain product lines.
Design & Materials: These pans feature a stainless steel honeycomb grid over a non-stick coating. The steel protects the non-stick coating.
Sizes: Common sizes are 8″, 10″, 12″, and sometimes 14″.
Performance
The hybrid coating allows you to sear, deglaze, and sauté dishes without sticking. Eggs, tofu, and fish often come off easily with just a little oil.
Limitations
The non-stick coating isn’t perfect. Over time or at high heat, food can stick. Additionally, residue can build up in the non-stick coating if not thoroughly cleaned.
HexClad offers multi-piece sets (pots, pans, lids). In Canadian reviews, users praise the versatility and convenience of the matching pieces.
Sets often include frying pans, saucepans, and sometimes woks.
The wok versions combine a hybrid design with a deeper shape and are well-suited for stir-frying and sauce-based dishes. Canadian reviewers cite their good performance in sticky or difficult dishes.
Highlights
Excellent balance between searing and non-stick properties
Robust build quality (3-layer construction, good heat, induction-compatible)
Use of metal utensils possible (thanks to the protective steel mesh)
Lifetime warranty against defects (not normal wear and tear)
Canadian users report good durability and easy cleaning for daily use.
Switching to PFAS/PTFE-free coatings in newer product lines to address chemical safety concerns.
Who is this product suitable for? 👥
HexClad is ideal for:
Home cooks who want fewer pans and fewer compromises
People who hate scrubbing non-stick pans or damaging burnt-on food
Users of induction, gas, or electric stoves – the technology is compatible with all stove types
Users of metal utensils who want a more durable non-stick coating
Cooks who are willing to invest more for longevity
Less suitable for:
Buyers who expect a perfect, long-lasting non-stick coating
Budget-conscious users – cheaper pans can meet basic needs
People who prefer traditional cookware like cast iron or high-quality stainless steel
Anyone who frequently cooks at extremely high temperatures (the coating can wear out faster)
Our Opinion / Why We Love It ❤️
We love HexClad because it solves one of the biggest trade-offs in cookware: scratch-resistant non-stick coating vs. cooking performance. The hybrid design offers great value in the kitchen – eggs, fish, and vegetables cook significantly better than in traditional stainless steel or non-stick pans. Cleaning is easier, and the steel grate protects the surface.
We appreciate the development of safe coatings and the responsiveness to customer requests. Brand recognition in Canada (warranties, range of reviews) is solid. While HexClad isn’t perfect, it’s an attractive “do-it-all” set for many home cooks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Excellent balance: non-stick coating + searing
Durable construction (3-layer, good heat distribution)
Compatible with induction and other stovetops
Safe handling of metal utensils
Lifetime warranty
Upgrade to safer coatings
Cons:
Non-stick coating not perfect – deteriorates over time
Expensive compared to standard pans
Warranty does not cover wear or surface defects
Some users report flaking of the non-stick coating after years of use.
Coating changes (PTFE → ceramic) can lead to performance differences between older and newer pans.
Customer Reviews
Customers praise:
Many Canadian buyers report that food “just slides off” and cleaning is much easier.
Trustpilot reviews highlight the excellent warranty service – customers receive replacements for flaking pans.
Owners often cite durability—pans last for several years with proper care.
Common Complaints:
Some report flaking or fading of the nonstick coating after about 1-3 years of heavy use.
Some claim the handles are difficult to grip under heavy use.
Others point out that the hybrid surface, while helpful, isn’t as perfectly nonstick as a new PTFE pan.
FAQs
Q: Are HexClad pans safe (toxic-free)?
A: Older product lines used PTFE-based coatings. Newer generations are switching to ceramic/PFAS-free coatings for added safety.
Q: Can I put them in the dishwasher?
A: Yes, but hand washing is recommended to maintain the finish and appearance.
Q: What's the warranty?
A: A lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects, but it does not cover surface scuffs, scratches, or other gradual wear and tear.
Q: Can I use metal utensils?
A: Yes – the steel mesh layer protects the underlying non-stick coatings, so using lightweight metal utensils is generally safe.
Q: Is it suitable for induction cooktops?
A: Yes, HexClad cookware is induction compatible.
Final Verdict
HexClad Canada (and North America as a whole) offers a compelling hybrid cookware solution for home cooks who want strong performance without the constant scrubbing or replacing. Yes, it’s a bit more expensive, and the non-stick coating will wear out over time – but for many, the convenience, durability, and versatility outweigh these drawbacks.
If you’re looking for a set that can do just about anything – sear, fry, sauté, clean – HexClad is among the top candidates. But lower your expectations: It’s no miracle cure, but it’s very good.
